Sophomore John Ford is a persistent runner for the Birmingham Community Charter High School Track and Field and Cross Country teams.

Ford first joined the cross country team when he was a freshman. Ford excelled in cross country and enjoys running in nature. After season ended that year, he joined track and field to continue his passion for running and was able to match his performance in cross country.

Ford was inspired by his parents to run. His parents were both athletes that specialized in running long distances sparking Ford’s interest as a young boy. He became a better runner through excessive practice.  Ford demonstrates all he learned in practice before a meet.

“Before a big meet, I practice strenuously the day before and surprisingly right before the match so I do not get nervous,” Ford said. “There is no need to psych yourself out.”

Many athletes get nervous before an important match or meet and it deters their performance throughout the match but Ford is an exception.  Ford’s nerves of steel allow him to run under intense pressure.

“John is one of the fastest runners on the team,” sophomore Juliette Tafoya said. “I learn from his perseverance and dedication.”

This is Ford’s second year in both cross country and track and field. He expects to continue running throughout his life.

“John is someone who learns from his mistakes,” Tafoya said. “This helps him practice more efficiently and makes him a fast runner overall. I can learn from that.”